Sunset Scoops, a family-run ice cream shop in downtown Harlan, has been named Small Business of the Week by Chair Joni Ernst. The recognition is part of an ongoing initiative to highlight notable small businesses across Iowa.
“Sunset Scoops is a sweetspot for folks, offering banana splits, sundaes, root beer floats, and their best-selling ice cream nachos,” said Chair Ernst. “Open past sunset, this family-run small business is adding flavor to downtown Harlan scoop by scoop, giving families and community members a place to enjoy a sweet treat together.”
The shop was established in April 2025 by Tina and Jeremy Schechinger. Tina, who works as a physician during the day and serves as “scooperista” at night, started Sunset Scoops to realize her dream of owning an ice cream store. She aimed to create a space where her children and neighbors could gather after work or a movie. The business also hosts birthday parties and provides curbside pickup.
Chair Ernst will continue to recognize other outstanding Iowa small businesses through the Small Business of the Week award.
The Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee plays an important role in shaping national fiscal priorities by supporting informed decision-making for Congress on federal budget matters (https://www.sbc.senate.gov/public/). The committee also offers policy options on various components of the federal budget (https://www.sbc.senate.gov/public/) and contributes to the congressional budget process through resolutions and reconciliation instructions (https://www.sbc.senate.gov/public/). Lindsey Graham currently serves as chairman while Jeff Merkley is ranking member (https://www.sbc.senate.gov/public/). Established under the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 (https://www.sbc.senate.gov/public/), the committee oversees nonpartisan budgetary analysis provided by the Congressional Budget Office (https://www.sbc.senate.gov/public/).
